Western Oregon Journal

            In the grand tradition of chain restaurants, few hold the prestige or popularity of Red Robin. College students nationwide fill their stomachs at this fabulous establishment.

            There are numerous reasons why; however, the number one most likely lies with the fact that they serve “bottomless steak fries.”

            That’s right—bottomless. That means there is no end, as many baskets of fries as the appetite craves. These are no run-of-the mill fries either. In fry-kingdom, they are second only to those of McDonald’s, whose legendary status boggles the mind. There are a few quintessential differences to McDonald’s fries, however. For one, these are steak fries. This means they are wider and fatter. They also come lightly seasoned. Each table at Red Robin comes adorned with their famous “Red’s Seasonings,” which any seasoned consumer knows only improves upon the quality of fry received. These deliverers of starchy goodness are served with most choices on Red Robin’s menu, but can be ordered in addition to any dish found lacking.

            As to the actual dishes, there is a variety. This is probably another reason Red Robin is so popular. Not only do they cater to burger lovers, but they also have a slew of appetizers, salads, soups, a couple pasta dishes and many more tempting delicacies to tempt the appetite and whet the palate.

            One of Red Robin’s claims to fame is their variety of burgers, and though tempting, it is the Clucks and Fries which deserve great attention and steals the plate for many carnivorous consumers. These babies are solid white meat with a breaded exterior, better for sealing in the tasty juices. They are, of course, served with the infamous bottomless steak fries, and a side of ranch. For a dinner bargain of about $8.79, the hungry connoisseur receives four delectable clucks and the fries.

            For the spicier among the college population, an order of the Buffalo Clucks and Fries may be in order. These are the hot variation of the traditional Clucks and Fries. This dish comes complemented with horseradish dipping sauce and a few sticks of celery—though ranch can be substituted for the horseradish. Don’t be deceived into thinking that these are run-of-the mill buffalo strips either, these puppies are HOT! Be sure to have some fries on the ready to help extinguish the flames that pop up on the tongue and lips. Luckily, the fries are bottomless. These Clucks also come with wet-wipes; they are a tad messy, but well-worth the extra effort. The spicier Clucks come with the same price tag as the traditional ones.

            Yet one more famous Red Robin menu item is the Speckled Lemonade. For a price tag of $3.49, the strawberry lemonade that set the standard can be guzzled. And then guzzled some more—this is also bottomless. What makes this lemonade better is that it incorporates large and small chunks of real strawberries, strawberry syrup, and, of course, lemonade. The combination makes for a delectable treat—refreshing at any time of the year.

            The closest Red Robin to Monmouth is in Salem, on Center Street right next to Target. While it is a good location, time does not always permit a busy college student the luxury of staying in Salem long enough to enjoy the service that Red Robin provides. Fret not! The to-go policy at Red Robin is by far the best. After placing the order, extra fries can be ordered to compensate for the fact that the consumer won’t actually be able to request them at the critical moment. If a Speckled Lemonade is ordered a refill is given complimentary as well, again to compensate for the fact that there can be no refills wherever the food will be taken.

            All in all, the food may be a little expensive, but anyone with an appetite can find satisfaction in every aspect that Red Robin has to offer.

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